When the chill of the season sets in, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup — the classic “get well soon” soup made with chicken, veggies, and pastina. This hearty dish not only warms your body but also soothes the soul, making it a beloved choice for those feeling under the weather. With its tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and tiny pasta, it brings a sense of home and nostalgia.
Moreover, the magic of this chicken soup lies in its simplicity and the wholesome flavor profile that nourishes both body and spirit. As you savor each spoonful of this delightful Italian remedy, you can’t help but feel uplifted. Dive into the rich tradition behind this comforting bowl and discover why it’s the go-to favorite for families seeking warmth and care.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Italian Penicillin Soup — The classic “get well soon” soup made with chicken, veggies, and pastina:
To create this comforting Italian Penicillin Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 1.5 cups pastina pasta (210g)
– 6 cups chicken broth or stock (1.5 litres)
To make homemade chicken broth (optional, but recommended for depth of flavor), gather these items:
– 1 cooked leftover chicken carcass, skin and meat removed
– 1 whole carrot (or cut in half)
– 1 stalk of celery, cut into 2 or 3 pieces
– 1 onion, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, smashed
– 1 bay leaf
– 1-2 sprigs of rosemary or your choice of herbs
With these ingredients, you are well-equipped to craft a nutritious and soul-soothing soup. To elevate your meal, consider pairing it with a side of crusty bread or a delightful dish like Homestyle Tomato Soup for a complete comfort food experience.
This Italian Penicillin Soup warms the heart and heals the soul, making it perfect for anyone feeling under the weather. Enjoy this classic recipe when you need that cozy touch!

How to prepare:
Italian Penicillin Soup, often referred to as the classic “get well soon” soup, is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken, nutritious veggies, and delicate pastina. To start, create a rich homemade chicken broth using a leftover carcass, along with a whole carrot, celery, half an onion, garlic, a bay leaf, and rosemary sprigs. Place all ingredients in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Simmer uncovered for 2-3 hours, skimming off any scum that surfaces.
After the broth is prepared, strain it to yield a flavorful liquid. In a separate pot, bring 6 cups of this homemade stock to a boil. Add 1.5 cups of pastina and cook for 3-4 minutes until al dente. Serve your hearty soup warm, paired with crusty bread or sprinkle with parmesan croutons for an extra touch. This rejuvenating soup not only warms the soul but also provides essential nutrients. For an equally delightful dish, explore the Homestyle Tomato Soup recipe, perfect for chilly days.
Health Benefits of This Classic Soup:
Italian Penicillin Soup — The classic “get well soon” soup made with chicken, veggies, and pastina, not only warms the soul but also provides numerous health benefits. The primary ingredient, chicken, is rich in protein, which helps in muscle repair and boosts the immune system. Additionally, the vegetables pack essential vitamins and minerals known to enhance overall health. Carrots, for instance, are high in beta-carotene, promoting good vision and skin health.
Furthermore, the small pasta called pastina offers carbohydrates for energy, making this soup a comforting, nourishing option during illness. For extra depth of flavor, you might also enjoy pairing this soup with a side of Homestyle Tomato Soup for a delightful meal.
For an authentic experience, refer to this Italian Chicken Pastina Soup recipe, where you can learn all the tips that make this dish so special. Incorporating such wholesome ingredients makes Italian Penicillin Soup not just tasty, but a sure choice for health and recovery. Enjoy its benefits any time, as it serves as a gentle reminder of home-cooked comfort and care.
Variations of Italian Penicillin Soup — The classic “get well soon” soup made with chicken, veggies, and pastina:
Italian Penicillin Soup — The classic “get well soon” soup made with chicken, veggies, and pastina is incredibly versatile. You can enhance its flavors and nutritional value by introducing a variety of ingredients. For instance, adding a handful of spinach not only boosts its color but also increases its health benefits. Alternatively, if you crave a heartier soup, consider incorporating beans for extra protein and fiber. Adjusting the type of pasta can also give this comforting dish a unique twist; small shapes like orzo or ditalini work wonderfully.
For a taste of additional richness, try swapping the chicken broth with a homemade homestyle tomato soup. The result is a delicious fusion that captures the essence of both soups. No matter how you tailor it, this Italian Penicillin Soup remains a classic remedy, nourishing both body and spirit. Enjoy experimenting!
Serving Suggestions for Italian Penicillin Soup — The classic “get well soon” soup made with chicken, veggies, and pastina:
Italian Penicillin Soup is not just about warmth; it’s also about comfort. To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing this nourishing soup with homemade breadsticks or a warm, crusty Italian loaf. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing the dish further.
For a delightful side, serve a simple Greek chicken salad with olives and chickpeas. The tangy notes harmonize beautifully with the savory flavors of the soup, creating a balanced meal. You could also follow up your soup with a light dessert. How about a refreshing candy cane punch for something sweet yet simple?
Not only does this soup serve as a meal on its own, but it also complements these sides perfectly. With such accompaniments, it’s easy to see why Italian Penicillin Soup is the ultimate comfort food choice, especially when you need a dose of nourishment.
Storage tips for Italian Penicillin Soup — The classic “get well soon” soup made with chicken, veggies, and pastina:
To keep your Italian Penicillin Soup fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer preservation, freeze individual portions; this makes reheating easy and convenient. When you’re craving a cozy meal, simply thaw and enjoy! Pair it with a comforting side like Homestyle Tomato Soup for an even heartier experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is Italian Penicillin Soup?
Italian Penicillin Soup — the classic “get well soon” soup made with chicken, veggies, and pastina, is a comforting dish known for its healing properties. It combines tender chicken, nutritious vegetables, and tiny pasta to create a soothing and hearty meal.
How do I make Italian Penicillin Soup?
To prepare this restorative soup, start by simmering chicken in a savory broth. Then add chopped vegetables like carrots and celery, and cook until tender. Finally, stir in pastina and season to taste, resulting in a delightful, healthful remedy.
Can I customize the vegetables in the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to adapt the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Ingredients like spinach or zucchini can easily be included, ensuring you enjoy the soul-soothing benefits of this Italian classic.
Is Italian Penicillin Soup gluten-free?
Typically, pastina contains gluten; however, you can substitute gluten-free pasta to make the soup suitable for a gluten-free diet. This ensures that those with sensitivities can still indulge in this heartwarming dish.
How long can I store leftovers?
Italian Penicillin Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep it fresh for longer, consider freezing portions. Reheat gently, adding a splash of broth for the best texture.
What can I serve with this soup?
For a perfect pairing, consider serving some crusty bread or a fresh salad alongside your dish. You might also enjoy a simple tomato soup, like the one found at this link, to complement the warmth of Italian Penicillin Soup.
Print
Italian Penicillin Soup — Nourish Your Body and Soul Today!
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Italian Penicillin Soup — The classic “get well soon” soup made with chicken, veggies, and pastina.
Ingredients
1.5 cups pastina pasta
6 cups chicken broth or stock
1 cooked leftover chicken carcass
1 carrot
1 celery
1 onion
2 cloves garlic
1 bay leaf
1–2 rosemary sprigs or other herbs of choice
Instructions
- Remove as much cooked chicken meat and skin from the carcass as possible. Add the chicken carcass and any other chicken bones to a large, deep pot and add the vegetables and herbs (you don’t need to peel any vegetables).
- Fill the pot with water until the chicken is covered then cover and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling uncover and reduce to a simmer. Skim off any scum that comes to the surface.
- Simmer the stock uncovered for 2-3 hours or longer (the longer you leave it the more concentrated the flavour will be but the less stock you’ll have as it will keep reducing).
- Pass through a sieve or colander so you’re left with the homemade stock and discard the bones, vegetables and herbs.
- Bring 6 cups of chicken broth to a boil.
- Add the pastina pasta and boil for 3-4 minutes or until al dente. Ladle into bowls and serve with crusty bread or parmesan croutons.
Notes
For a heartier soup, feel free to add more vegetables like peas or spinach.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Soup
- Method: simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 10g




